Our wedding story

I realize I've withheld this information for a while...or at least the details of it.  However it would be wrong for me to have a whole blog about my experiences in the Philippines, without including one of the most (or even THE most) important event that occured while I was here.  So even if whoever reads this doesn't care, I will at least have it as a reference or memory for myself..and I guess this is more of our entire story, because I feel the pieces all fit together so well..so here goes:

Corey and I met at a salsa dancing benefit now almost 3 years ago. I was in school obtaining my Master’s in counseling at the time, and knew that when I was done with school I wanted to live a year abroad to help victims of human trafficking. Pretty soon after we met, I remember sitting down to dinner with my two roommates.  We started having an innocent conversation about dating, and Amanda was asking of the people we had met so far in North Carolina who we would consider going on a date with.  After thinking about it, I mentioned I wouldn't mind getting to know Corey more, who...ironically...called me at the same time I was answering this question.  After pursuing me a bit :), Corey and I became exclusive. Graduation quickly arrived, and so did the decision about whether or not I should serve abroad in the Philippines. Knowing that, because of several factors, he could not go with me if I went.

After many nights of tears and intense discussions, Corey looked at me and told me I had to go and that if I didn’t I would regret it…which is exactly what I needed to hear from him, and one of the greatest acts of love he has ever done for me. In discussing what my absence would mean for a year, we decided to maybe take a break once I actually left. I was devastated, and little did I know Corey would soon change his mind during a conversation in Taco Bell one Sunday morning. Corey was expressing to me how badly he wanted to get married and how me leaving for a year did not fit into his life plans. I then asked him, “well do you want to marry your life plans or do you want to marry ME?” Apparently, that day he went out and picked the ring to showcase his grandmother’s diamond that he would soon be giving to me.

It was Christmas morning, about a month before I left. With my family present, he had me read aloud a love letter found under the Christmas tree which at the bottom stated I had a prize waiting for me on the tree. I scurried around until I found an engraved heart ornament saying “my heart will always be yours Love Corey.” Behind it was a small box I was utterly shocked to find. I turned and saw both my dad and sister crying, and when I turned back Corey was on his knee. It was so overwhelming, and emotional. I guess we had a change of plans.  The rest of that morning was a blur, although I do remember immediately afterwards Amy opening her next present which anticlimacticly turned out to be....... a puzzle.

Before I left, we decided to organize the big fancy wedding once I got back in the States at the end of the year since it was difficult to do anything overseas, and that we would likely host it in the fall of the following year.

About a month before Corey came to visit me, we were discussing what would happen when I returned.  The conversation was difficult, as they had been before, because there were so many unknowns...where would I live, where would I go, where should I look for a job and one night on the phone we joked about just getting married at city hall when I got home so at least we could live together and start are lives together while planning the next step. Then I joked about getting married in the Philippines when he came to visit, but the joke didn't seem funny....something felt right. And we had another change of plans.

We decided we wouldn't do it without the blessing of our parents.  Corey corageoulsy requested to be the one to talk to my parents.  They were incredibly supportive, although I know it was difficult for them just because they so badly wanted to be a part of it...and we're just so thankful for that sacrifice they gave so graciously gave us.  Best wedding present they could have given.  I do know my dad is proud he has a daughter that is such a goody-goody that she has to ask permission to elope.  Corey's parents were also more than supportive, as his mother had been writing him letters for a while requesting that we become husband and wife. :) 

We also decided that getting married here would not prevent us from having the wedding and reception we wanted to host when I returned to the States.  We do believe it's important to celebate and share our love with our friends and family.  So yes, I am being a pretty pretty princess and we are having two weddings.  I'm going to get married many many times, but always to the same man.

And thus began the adventure of getting married in the Philippines. When we first decided it was a go, Corey reiterated that I was not allowed to use money given to me by supporters to pay for the wedding, of course, and that I couldn't spend a majority of my time here planning a wedding since my time was devoted to issues related with human trafficking.  He was incredible, he did most of the research and would just deposit money in my account, then tell me who to pay.  I was determined not to be a bridezilla, which I think I did a pretty good job, except to issues I had related to city hall and getting a marriage license here.  I just....don't even want to type out those details because it re-stresses me out again. I will say I've been to Pasig City Hall, The US Embassy, and The National Statistics Office more than 10 times....and that I was known as "the crying girl" to a lady in city hall who tried to help me when I didn't understand what was going on. 

We got married in El Nido, which is a very small town on the island of Palawan.  Because we didn't want to buy a cake in Manila that would have to fly with us, we had to purchase our cake from a store in Puerto Princesa, the capital city we flew into. It cost us 160 pesos which is the equivalent of about $4...and why it looks the way it does. But it was delicious, needless to say. They had some wedding figurines at the store, but none of them had a black male so Corey and I decided we would go with wedding cake toppers that would moreso represent us: Belle and Naruto...I've always wanted to be a Disney princess, and Corey loves anime, so it seemed to be more fitting for us.

After taking a very squished 7 hour van ride from Puerto Princesa, we (and the cake, that was even seat belted at times) made it to El Nido. We were the first couple to be married at this amazing resort that you have to take about a 1 hour boat ride from land to get to. Corey and I were so calm the day of the wedding. It was such a peaceful place, so quiet compared to what I was used to in Manila. I think he even took a nap in a hammock while I was getting my hair and make up done. My bouquet was given to me by the staff at the resort who had gone into the market earlier that morning and bought some local flowers.  They covered every detail, and I didn't have to worry about anything.  It rained while I was getting ready, which only seemed to add to the relaxation we felt. Since it was rainy season, we were prepared for any sort of disaster and were ready to get married rain or shine. Fortunately for us, it rained before and after our ceremony, and even gave us a beautiful sunset to finish out the night.

The ceremony was so special to us because it included a letter from my parents, and a poem Corey's mother had given to me that was also read at her wedding. We incorporated an old Celtic Tradition of "tying the knot" with three strands of ribbon, one representing Corey, one representing me, and one representing God, basing it on the scripture saying a chord of three strands can't be broken. We used the New Zealand prayer book (thank you, Catherine) to say our vows then wrote and read our own. Afterwards we went to the beach to wash each other's feet, symbolizing our intention to serve and respect each in other in our marriage. We finished the ceremony by taking communion together, then went back down on the beach for our first dance to Aladdin's "A Whole New World." Our dance concluded with small fireworks shot over the dock.  Lastly, the staff at the resport prepared a romantic dinner for the two of us lit by tiki torches right on the ocean, overlooking the large limestone cliff found in many of the pictures. It was a dream wedding.  And we would not have been able to do any of this if it was anywhere else.  They definitely spoiled us and made us feel like superstars.

I ended up getting his ring custom made here.  Corey had sent me a picture of a ring he really wanted in the States that unfortunately cost around $1600, and I was able to get one made especially for him for about 1/7 of the price.  And the employees there were so nice.  I had them engrave "my hero" on the inside based on one of my first memories of Corey. When we were first getting to know each other, I knew he had my number but at some point he snuck his number into my phone but labeled it as "my hero" so that when he called the next day, "my hero" was what came up. It was a sneeky move, but I have never changed it.  I also worked with a local designer to custom design and hand make my dress.

We wouldn't have changed one thing. And I know every bride has to say this...but it really was perfect. We would do the same thing all over again. I want to marry Corey every day.  At least I know I still have another wedding to plan.

For a glimpse at more pictures: http://catilo.net/2010/09/corey-megan/

Wednesday, November 17

Today was my last day of work.  I don't know, it's like for some reason my brain doesn't really register that I'm leaving.  It became the most real yesterday when I went to the shelter to go pick up some last minute pasalubong to bring home.  I decided to go to the dorm where our clients are housed just to say good bye.  It was really difficult.  I wanted to communicate to them how proud I was of them, how much hope I had for their future, and how much I loved them...which I think they got.  I hope they got. 

But anyways, the work day almost felt too normal.  I didn't feel like I was appreciating it the way I should.  I don't know if I'm just ready to go or that I feel closure from all the work that was accomplished over this year.  I have to admit...I am tired.  But I'm energized looking back over all the experiences IJM allowed me to have.  Before interns/fellows leave it required to present on your accomplishments from the year.  It almost felt therapeutic to go back to that first training in Samar...but I wasn't prepared for how well celebrated I would be.  And then the despedida (good bye party) began.  I got so spoiled. Staff from the office created picture..montage...presentations that were both funny and thoughtful, and I got real emotional when the social workers brought in several of our clients to come sing for me.  These were clients I had had the privelege on working with in the past, and I wasn't sure I would have the opportunity to even say good bye, much less be thanked by them.  What an incredible honor.  And while that would have been more than enough for a despedida, the office suprised me at the end of the day by presenting me with a drawing from me and Corey's wedding in El Nido.  It looked amazing, and I was just so blown away. 

Yes....Corey and I got married while he was here. And I'm really sorry if this is the way you found out :)

Sunday, November 14

I got to witness history today when I saw the Pacquiao fight.  I have to confess something.  The fights started at 9am this morning, so instead being a good girl and going to church, I spent my Sunday morning in a restaurant/bar...watching people fight each other.  And I'm so glad I decided to go.  To me, Manny is just so amazingly Filipino.  It made me fall in love with the Philippines even more. 

Most boxers try to come out looking intimidating and angry, but Manny came out smiling and waving while the Karate Kid song was being played in the background.  He looked so small compared to Margarito and I think we were all a little nervous.  When interviewed before the fight, the announcer asked him how he was feeling and instead of making cocky or intimidating statements he casually stated, "ehhh....I am ready to fight." 

My favorite moments were at the end, after Manny could have easily finished with a knockout, but ended up taking it easy on his opponent.  He said "boxing is not for killing, it's for entertainment."  then, when the announcer asked how he was going to celebrate after the fight, he invited everyone to a concert he would be having back at the hotel.  Yes, he is in a band, and when he's not doing one of those two things, he is also a congressman here in the Philippines.  A jack of all trades.  Then the interviewer asked if he wanted to ever fight Mayweather, and Manny's casual response was something like "eh, if he wants to fight then I will fight him and if he does not want to fight then that is OK."  I just want to be his friend.  The article below describes everything a lot better than I could.  I left the fight feeling so inspired and so proud of the Philippine nation.


link to article about fight

Friday, November 12

Earlier this week I had the opportunity of visiting some of our male clients at a shelter I had not visited the whole time I was here.  I was really encouraged after visiting because the staff seemed so lively and happy, the director seemed to manage the compound very well and was very eager to look out for the best interest of all 200 clients there.  I was actually able to speak in Tagalog there with some of the cutest little boys ever...yes it's true...granted they were 8 years old and younger.  Which is why I could kind of communicate.  Kind of.  I fell in love and really wanted to take them all home with me.  I don't think Corey would mind...

The director briefly mentioned that she had been trying to offer some rest and relaxation to her staff, but did not have the budget, so one of our fabulous attorneys and I promised to do a rest and relaxation workshop.  So today I spent the morning conducting a workshop on stress management and relaxation, and in the afternoon we brought in a spa team to provide each employee with a 30 minute foot massage.  It was wonderful to spoil the people who have given their lives to help such needy and wonderful children.  It blessed us to serve them in this way, and I'm glad I had trainings up until the last minute I left.  I think the attorney originally felt bad for so quickly "offering up my services" without consulting me first, but I told him that's why I was here and that it made me feel useful.

Saturday, November 6

We were invited to climb Mt. Tarak today in Bataan.  It's always exciting and refreshing to get out of Manila, and after the rice terraces earlier this year, I felt my body was prepared for anything.  We hiked up for about 3 hours until we reached a beautiful stream. We stopped for lunch and figured we might need to head back so we could get to the car before dark. Plus we had all run out of water. Not good when you have a 3 hour hike ahead of you. It was a little disappointing to accept the fact that we wouldn't reach the mountain top, but we soon found out the top of the mountain was still another 3 hour hike from the stream.  No wonder everyone else we saw were carrying camping gear...we thought we had missed out on something. 

It was still nice to be outside, get some exercise, and feel sore the next day.  I made everyone stop on the side of the road to drink some fresh buko (coconut juice straight out of the...shell?  nut? ) on the way home, so I was happy. 

uh oh

It was pleasantly suprising when the lady at Starbucks remembered me and called me by name.  It was espcially sweet when the cashier at Earle's (our favorite sandwich shop) knew my name and usual order....but when the person at Dairy Queen knows your name...for some reason it's embarassing.

Confessions of a Taxi Rider

I rode in a cab today that used the emergency brake instead of the normal brakes for braking.  Am I saying brake too much?  Anyways, I know the normal brakes worked because he used them sometimes in heavy traffic, when he needed them quickly, but he used the emergency break for every other time he needed to slow down.  The only reason I can think why he would do that would be to save gas?  When I first got here in Manila, Hope had told me about a time she rode in a taxi with her mom, and the driver also used the emergency brake then.  It was hard to imagine what that would be like.  Now I know.  And it was scary.

Let's play a game of...

Would this sell in the US?



Yes, that is meatball pizza with a stack of french fries in the middle....then a pizza with buffalo chicken and onion rings stacked in the middle.  Is this really even pizza anymore?

Friday, October 22

This past Friday we were invited to visit Samaritana for an event: Samaritana's Got Talent.  From what we hear, over the past year the volunteers have noticed the creative talent in both the staff and clients in this organization, so they decided to put on a talent show to celebrate these gifts.  We could tell from the performances that the women used music as a therapeutic tool to articulate what they have and are still going through in their lives.  There was some powerful expressions and incredible talent displayed, we were sad to leave...and even more sad since it was monsooning outside and ridiculously "traffic."  (Translation - there was a lot of traffic on the way home.  Yes...its normal for traffic to be used in a sentence that way here. Aaand it's kind of fun to say it that way.  Feel free to correct me of these things when I get home and say them like they're normal in the U.S.)    

Daria and I have found that shopping at Samaritana is one of our favorite things to do in Manila, and it doesn't happen that often since it is so far away (which is probably a good thing for my bank account.)  Their livelihood room is filled with intricately made cards, magnets, jewelry, and paper.  It feels so good to purchase such beautifully crafted gifts from an organization that you know helps women in such immense ways.  Get excited, many of you back home will be on the receiving end of whatever I have purchased from here. :)

Monday, October 18

Cebu is a place Edgar and I really wanted to visit before we left the Philippines.  We were given the opportunity this weekend to travel with some friends, one who is living in Cebu, so we went when we found out how cheap the plane tickets were.  On the way to the airport, our friend Joey informed us that Zest Air is so cheap because they are a business that used to be called something else and was known for crashing all the time.  The old name used to be like...Philippines spirit, and apparently they used to crash so much people would joke you would fly with them a person and come back a spirit....soooo needless to say I was a little nervous.  Don't worry mom and dad, I'm writing this blog post from Manila, so you know I'm back safe and sound. 

We saw this sign at the airport in the area you walk through to get on the plane, and it was so confusing to me. 

There was no place to wash feet, what is foot and mouth disease, and of all things to advertise....why this?  (foot and mouth disease is something carried by humans, but that affects pigs snouts or something...sick.)

Anyways, Cebu was beautiful.  When we first arrived we went to a mall to get some lunch and ran into the one other person we know from Cebu, which was nice because she was able to recommend a yummy place for us to eat.  That night we visited Ben at his apartment, and he had set up a barbecue and swimming party with the family next door who owns....probably the most beautiful mansion home I've ever seen in my life.  It was amazing.  and had a sauna....and a movie theater...and 3 stories worth of whatever rooms you would need in a house.  We felt so spoiled. 

I had such a crazy vivid dream that night that I probably shouldn't share with the world, but I'm going to...because it kinda rocked my world.  Basically in my dream I had gone back to Manila, but really wanted to make sure I was back in Cebu in time to see the waterfall with everyone else (which we never ended up actually seeing a waterfall while we were in Cebu).  I went to this house where a woman offered me the opportunity to adopt a Filipino baby, and I really wanted to, but I also really wanted to see the waterfall and couldn't do both for some reason.  It was a very tough decision, but in the end I chose waterfall.... Yes. I am ashamed.  As Hope would say, it's a matter of the heart.  Also at some point in my dream everything started catching on fire, but i think it's because right before I went to bed that night, I tried to turn on the aircon and the wires caught on fire.  And we all know I have a pretty strong fear of fire.  I woke up so confused...everything still seemed kind of real and vivid.  I was happy I was in Cebu, but guilty about the slightly selfish decision I made in my dream.  I'm still kind of processing what the dream might mean for me.  Hm.

Anyways, the next day we took a squished van to a nearby beach called Moalboal.  What made this beach so beautiful were the mountains (Negros) in the background.  We got to snorkel, saw some fish, and I had a few mango margaritas which were especially tasty. 

Cebu had some unique forms of transportation.  We rode on trikes, but these weren't any trikes...they were more souped up than anything I've ever seen in the Philippines.  I was so intrigued. 

Yes, we all fit on this trike.

Overall, a successful and relaxing trip.  We spent Sunday basically doing a food tour around Cebu city.  Ben took us to eat the best Halo Halo I've ever had....where they froze coconut milk for the ice shavings *mmm*...and then we went to eat at a place that has "the big bang burger"...and it's 9 inches wide/long. I'm not kidding. I didn't believe it or understand it until they brought it out, but it was bigger than most of our heads, and soooo good.  I still need to steal a picture from edgar to post on here...



Wednesday, October 13th

I just completed my third day of training at Samaritana.  What an incredible organization.  I'm exhausted and exhilarated at the same time.  It's such a calming and peaceful place, and they allowed me to stay in one of their guest rooms throughout the training so I wouldn't have to commute.  Other participants stayed in guest rooms, as well.  They use the opportunity to teach their clients "hotel management" type skills when people stay over.  I fell asleep one night to a client playing guitar while singing Christmas songs.  I loved it.

For the training, they gathered people from several NGO's around and outside of Manila to attend.  The first day covered victim sensitivity training and trafficking dynamics, while the last 2 days covered an intensive training on each of the 10 components of TF-CBT.  This training felt especially effective as the participants were more than willing to ask questions and discuss various issues that arose with one another.  They really consulted each other on struggles in practice and took advantage of the opportunity of being together in one place.  I appreciated these discussions, although I was quite surprised because in the past I have found when I have tried to initiate some discussion during trainings, it is very difficult since many Filipinos report they are nervous to speak in English, and felt somewhat intimidated since I was a foreigner.  I was very glad people would speak up because I get kind of tired of hearing myself talk all the time...and I'm sure they do too.  There was a good mixture of foreigners and Filipinos, so that the staff from our office could give some insight as to how our learnings might fit into Filipino culture.  The cultural discussions were very rich, and I could really tell the participants were learning a lot from one another.  The participants left feeling invigorated to incorporate some of the things they had learned, and while it was a ton of information, it was a very good starting place in the process of implementing TF-CBT into practice.  It was good to connect and network with other NGOs, and our social workers came back with several ideas of how to improve work with our clients.  Woo hoo! 

Thursday, October 7

Got to work at 6am this morning, had a late meeting last night, accidentally broke my bracelet, feeling stressed with all I have to do for the training next week, feeling sad since we may have lost some of the videos Corey took of the Philippines while he was here, got some more bad news at work....cried and maybe made a scene....left and got in a fight with a cab driver...got out in the middle of the intersection to walk home.


one of those i hate manila days.

Sunday, October 3

One of our coworkers invited us to their church today.  We (the other interns and I) were so honored to receive the invitation and gladly accepted.  This person asked if each of us would be willing to offer a 5-10 min encouragement to the church..once we made sure this would not serve as as the sermon for the week, we agreed to speaking.  As we entered the church we could just feel the joy and contentment of the people around us.  There was even a sign on the wall with our names up welcoming us to the church. The experience reminded me of similar stories I've heard from other people visiting small rural churches in another country or on a mission trip or something when they say they've never seen people worship God like this before...it was so lively, so real and so genuine.  Amidst being so poor, and having to travel long distances...the people were so content and welcoming.  There was just a spirit in the church that was unexplainable.  

Afterwards, we joined the ministry team to visit the homes of an area called San Isidoro.  This is a place where around 5,000 families had been displaced last year due to Typhoon Ondoy.  Several of these families houses flooded so much water actually covered their roofs.    In this displacement area, people lived side by side with no electricity....which is just unimaginable in somewhere as hot as the Philippines.  Many people were begging for prayer for sicknesses and it seemed as though denge fever was prevalant.   In some ways I don't know that my brain could process what was going on...it kind of felt like the kind of experiences you see celebrities having...taking pictures surrounded by beautiful smiling children.  The other church members kept thanking us so much for joining them, but i felt like I had done nothing.  I was the one gaining exposure and learning so much about what it means to be content and at peace regardless of lifes circumsances. I told them they are the ones to be thanked for so faithfully serving the people of san isidoro every week. We were again asked to also speak words of encouragement here, and then later on at a children's bible school.  We weren't prepared for these mini sermons, but we figured out something on the fly.  I don't know how much language was a barrier anyways....and this sounds so cheesy, but I have to say it...we did speak the language of love through smiles, hugs, dancing, and whatever minimal conversation we could attempt.  As we drove away the kids followed us to the car telling us they loved us.  It was incredible.  I'm sad I hadn't done/seen this sooner.  That said, I really think Filipino children are the cutest in the world.  Since I don't have children yet, I can say that....right?

Thursday, September 30

I feel very encouraged after today.  Just last week a restaurant business opened up, the owner is a lady who used to volunteer with some of our clients and has decided to only employ young adults who have struggled and are in need of a livelihood.  She therefore takes recommendations from NGO's on who to hire, and she is willing to work with IJM clients in the future.  She not only teaches them cooking skills, and business skills...she is apparently willing to work with them on English and other skills to enhance their life and opportunities for the future. A very special lady, and so sweet in person.  We ate lunch there yesterday, and got to see our client hard at work in the kitchen.  They looked so confident, comfortable, happy and proud....and it made me want to come eat at the restaurant every day.  They served Grade A sushi....which was explained to be the meat sold only to Japan and the US for sushi (surprisingly you can't really find that here in the Philippines...).  They also had miso soup, coconut milk chicken with basil, okra, and other glorious things.  I tried rice coffee for the first time too and officially like it....

Afterwards, we did a home visit on the way to a 15th anniversary celebration of a shelter that houses women who have been abused.  IJM was honored to receive an award, thanking us for our support.  The clients and employees did several dances for us throughout the ceremony, and at the end of the last dance, they ripped open these bags of some sort and massive butterflies came flying out all over the gymnasium.  It was so cool...and metaphorical.  If that's a word.  The "women" to me looked sooooo young.  I pictured them looking much older before I arrived, but it was cool to see potential and possibility for them.  They looked happy and restored.

On the way home we got stuck in traffic. 

crop...not crap

This morning, a coworker sat beside me with something on her plate that looked a little like potatoes, but I wasn't sure.  I asked her what it was, and heard her say "ah yes, this is crap."  I thought for a minute, not believing she said crap, so then asked her..."that's crab?"  and she said, "No, it's a crap.  You know....crap!"  I let it go or a minute and turned away still confused, then asked.."It is called crap?" and she said "yes....like a potato." and she let me smell it.  I did not choose to have a taste though.

All morning I thought filipinos called potato like foods "crap"...and thought that was kind of funny.

Later I asked a coworker why they called potatoes "crap" here, and he was really confused, but then started laughing saying, "no no no....root crop. she was probably saying crop....but you heard crap."

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHANNON

Christmas is upon us

They have officially already started playing Christmas music in the grocery and department stores here.  

 ...and I'm not mad about it.

Also, in a sermon I heard this weekend, the preacher included the following statement  "Christmas season is upon us..." and he was not joking.

Really?  It is?

Thursday, September 2

Rainy season   +   a city of 20 million   -   an umbrella for myself   =   getting stabbed by everyone else's umbrella

Friday, August 27

The shelter where we house a lot of our clients invited me to serve as the resource person for one of their trainings they offer to staff.  It was a huge honor to be asked, and I was very grateful to be given the opportunity to help those who directly serve our clients (house parents, social workers, admin and medical staff).  I will get to do 2 "batches" of people, so I completed the first batch today...discussing trafficking sensitivity, counseling techniques for victims of abuse, self care, and behavioral management strategies.  They were so open to learning and really seemed to gain a lot form the experience, which was so encouraging for me.  I am looking forward to next week. 

Monday, August 23

It was kind of crazy tonight...I ended up spending a long time at the gym while wathcing live coverage of a bus being hijacked in Manila.  This whole time I convinced myself all crazy political unrest and super dangerous/random crimes happen in the South....and never thought it would happen here.  It's kind of rocking my world...but it's not about me.  I'm safe and sound.  My heart goes out to the families of the victims of this tragedy.

see news article here

Friday, August 20

Some of the other interns and I escorted one of our superstar attorneys to the University of the Philippines today.  We presented to one of the law classes in order to get some students to sign up for an internship with IJM.  The lawyer we were with is always so eloquently spoken and intentional with his words, I was so proud of the job he did.  At the end of his presentation he gave us the opportunity to gush over the work of IJM, as well.  I love "selling" the work of IJM to others, it always makes me so excited and reminds me of why I do what I do.

Afterwards, we got to tour the campus and I had isaw (chicken intestines) round 2.  This was definitely much better than the last time I had it....probably because it was properly cooked, and I may have had several pieces.  :)  Yes, I realize it is chicken intestines...but apparently UP is the place to go to get the best isaw.

Hair Problems

So for the past few months, every time I shower my hair just....falls out...everywhere....all over me....all over my apartment...all over my clothes, where I feel it on me but can't necessarily find it.  It sometimes is a little disturbing, but it's also good to know it's not just me....aparently it's a normal thing.  The other interns complain about it too, and there are tons of shampoos and conditioners out there to prevent "hair fall."  There are a few theories out there that I've heard to try to explain hairfall....one being that the water here is just really intense somehow, or another being that the extreme changes in temperatures (being so hot outside and so cold inside malls/offices) make your hair not know what to do, so it just falls out.

Personally, I have a shedding dog theory....that it just gets so hot here that your body wants to do whatever it can to get rid of anything that might make you any hotter...like a dog. Shedding.  Who knows.  I just hope my hair is not too thin by the time I get back to the States.

Saturday, August 14

The social workers and I helped to lead an orientation today involving social workers from all over Manila today. We have been seeking out volunteer social workers to help during rescues so that our clients can get the maximum attention they need...so we helped to train them in what to expect and how to deal with clients during rescues.  The staff did a wonderful job.  I have so much respect for them, as they pretty consistently have 6 day work weeks to meet the schedules of others and clients, so I am honored to help in any way that makes their life easier.

I stopped by a nearby mall halfway through the training to run an errand and had to take the following picture outside.

No, it is not a taxi stand....a tricycle stand.  Tricycle - a form of transportation here which is basically like a cart attached to a bicycle or a motorcycle.  Some can actually get pretty fancy...I've seen one with a blacklight in it.

I, however, took a taxi to get home tonight, and had some frustration with the taxi driver on the way back to the office.  I get so irritated when they ask for extra money just because I'm a foreigner, or say there is going to be a lot of traffic so i should pay extra or they won't take me at all....i want to tell them they are a taxi driver in Manila...what do they expect? Traffic is everywhere....sometimes I can brush that stuff off, but tonight it really irritated me....and I was just exhausted.

Friday, August 13

This afternoon I got to spend some time with a client that I have been working with on her insomnia.  She has reported having trouble getting to sleep since high school, and it has lately been affecting her work, her ability to pay attention in school, and I think a reason why she has been consistently sick over the past few months.  She came back this week so excited because she had implemented everything we had discussed, and has been able to get to sleep by 9pm every night.  She reported her dad kept saying he didn't believe she was the same girl, and felt like she was a new person.  She was so excited, and so committed to helping herself get better.  Her dedication to the process is revealed by the fact that she has to leave at 10am to get to our meeting place by 1:30pm.  Such a sacrifice and a wonderful encouragement to me.

On a different note...I relived 4th grade tonight by going to the Boyz II Men concert with some friends.  In case there was any question before, they are definitely men now...but dance just like they did back in the day.  It was really fun/funny, and a nice break from all that has been going on.

Monday, August 9

This is how I know I am getting more acculturated...more assimilated...more acclimated...what's the word to use here? I ate crazy looking fish all weekend...and never took a picture with my own camera.  Fortunately Daria, the new communications intern, did....so I thought I would post some of the delicious food (I promise I'm not being sarcastic) I got to eat this weekend...if anything so Amy can see it cause I know it grosses her out and that entertains me. :)

This is Tilapia. 

...Looks much different when it is served in the U.S., right?  This is a straight up....fish out of the water, that has been cooked.

This is boneless bangus (with my tilapia in the background)...otherwise known as milkfish and is officially my favorite thing to eat here. Seriously.

Something a little more fun and appealing....here you drink buko straight out of the shell, then they slice it open so you can scoop out the coconut on the inside.  It's refreshing. :)

Thursday, August 5

IJM celebrated another estabishment closure today. I accompanied the IJM team the last time there was a closure, only having to leave early for another meeting. When I left, one of the lawyers promised me it would happen again...and it did...this time closing the first massage parlor IJM Manila has ever done. It was really creepy going inside..looking much like a brothel. The beds were not like massage beds, but regular flat beds for sleeping...or other things, and dirty sheets were all over the place.

We went in broad daylight when the massage center was still open. The girls still looked so young, although we knew they were adults from the previous rescue. The staff there was very calm and accepting of what was happening...I think they expected it. It was incredible to see our partners lock/chain up the doors for good...with a big open sign also in full view....and also to see how excited the local officials and police officers were to be doing such a good thing. It was a blessing to be a part of, although Corey is requesting I don't go on any more in order to be safe. We are now officially out of closure signs and need to buy more. One of our attorneys says when they first bought the signs a while ago, they thought they were buying too many but bought them in faith knowing that if they had these signs they would be put to good use. Now we have to buy more!

Tuesday, August 3

Adobo is a delicious filipino way to marinate and cook any kind of meat (mainly chicken or pork). I've had pork adobo several times while I've been here, and strongly encourage visitors to eat the same when they are seeking out a tasty authentic filipino dish.  I'll tell them "go with anything adobo and you'll be good to go."  Well, I tried to cook tofu adobo tonight and....it just wan't the same.  I'm not sure I'll do it again.

Sunday, August 1

I started feeling sick on Friday and came down with a fever, which was very unfortunate considering Friday was the monthly Staff Care Day I am in charge of and Leah's Despedida.  So there were planned events all day long.  Edgar was so sweet and offered to take over for me, so I ended up going home early to try to rest so that I could wake up early on Saturday and go assist in conducting our Parenting Effectiveness Seminar.  This seminar has been something I have been working on for months, and was so excited to see it come to fruition, however it turns out I had to stay in bed and miss it.  The positive side is that I was not going to be the one presenting, as it would be best for the presenter to speak tagalog, so my job was done.  I prepared all the materials and modules for the social workers so all they had to do was present.  I was happy to hear that the training was very effective, especially during the portion where we had the children and parents write letters and then read them out loud to each other.  From what I hear, it was a very emotional moment for them both.  The social workers are now planning on using the training and taking it to several parts of Manila so we can help parents and clients in several different areas, so that makes me feel good.  My next module to work on is a career readiness module for our clients to complete before entering into the workforce and pursue a livelihood. I am feeling a little better every day...although I'm still not 100%.  I was really hoping this would just be a 24 hour thing...


Happy birthday Corey :)  Next year I promise to make an extra large yellow cake with chocolate frosting.

Wednesday, July 28

Happy birthday daddy. :)

Tuesday, July 27

My supervisor, a social worker and I are part of a ME Team in the office that is supposed to engage mega churches around Manila in partnering with IJM and helping pursue justice.  We presented today to a group of 20 pastors of a church who has satellite churches all over Manila.  I think at first they were a little apprehensive as to what we would be expecting of them, but as we shared the vision of IJM and how the church could play a role in fighting against human trafficking, it was incredible to see how motivated and pumped up the team of pastors became.  We went well into their lunch break, as they asked question after question, and they have invited us back to present to several other groups within their church.  I am very much looking forward to this partnership as the church seems so excited to do what they can to send us referrals, and support us.  They ended the meeting by praying for us, and we left feeling so proud to be a part of the organization we work for.  The presentations end up being such a good thing to do, not only for the fact that it creates partnerships, but because it helps us to really appreciate and be reminded of why we do what we do.

Interesting Food Updates

Some of the food options at the movie theater here in Manila.

Pork Sisig:

Sisig = pig face

Black rice

It's black because it's flavored with squid ink.  I had seconds...it's pretty good.

Liquid seasoning is the same thing as soy sauce.

Friday, July 16

Today was the big day. We were able to partner with a very skilled and professional organization that IJM sponsors to work with the girls at the shelter where we refer a majority of our clients. Throughout the year, this organization has conducted "art as therapy" sessions to work with our clients on their recovery. They do such good work, giving the girls the best they have to offer by using quality materials, and by doing this, it is their intention to show the clients their value and worth and that they are deserving of the best there is to offer. We've seen so much transformation from the kind of work they do with them. From what I hear, (as I had not arrived yet) at first the girls would be very critical of their work, and would get really upset over any kind of mistake they would make, and Bambi (the owner of Creative Kids, and daughter of a famous architect) patiently taught them how mistakes can be fixed and can be used to create something beautiful. This became a wonderful metaphor for their rehabilitation. It was amazing to see the art exhibit come to fruition, and to have the opportunity to simply celebrate their creations, as these girls have not been celebrated enough thoughout their lifetime.

During the art exhibit we had a program surrounding the theme of Filipino Fiesta. The girls from the shelter danced traditional dances called the Kaamulan and Tinikling. It was incredible and so encouraging to see them dancing age appropriate dances, since they come into the shelter only knowing dances from their experience as a Guest Relations Officer. I have attached a photo of our clients doing the Tinikling dance, which they make look much easier than it actually is. During the program, a client who has gone through rehabilitation at this shelter and has since moved back home was able to share her very powerful testimony (originally written in Waray, the dialect spoken in Samar, and translated into English). 

We finished the evening by having our STARS (Standing Together to Advocate Rights - clients who now advocate for victims of trafficking) host a dinner for the guests at our Field Office Director's house. One of our clients served as the emcee and cracked jokes all night long, while another presented on what it means to be a STAR client. She memorized her entire script, which was amazing because her speech lasted more than 5 minutes. Several girls sang two songs throughout the night including "Journey" by Lea Solanga and "Thanks to You" by Tyler Collins. It was such a powerful and inspirational moment for me, to see these girls working in their gifts and talents, feeling special, and feeling empowered that I forgot I was supposed to speak to the group after one of the songs. I walked up to the front still sobbing, so I had to get myself under control. Before the busy week began, I was feeling a little cautious for our clients, as I did not want them to feel like they had to put on a show or be anything that they are not, but once I saw their interactions with our guests from abroad, I was so encouraged to see how how excited they were to show and share with others how their lives had been changed. From what they shared with me, it was an opportunity for them, not a burden. I also know sometimes speaking English can be exhausting, so when I checked in with the girls, their response was all very similar: "This is all a dream come true." The dinner was a very intimate way of closing out the trip, and we all left feeling so excited and so proud of the wonderful women these girls are transforming into.

Thursday, July 15

We thought the typhoon would affect the flights of our guests coming in, but fortunately they made it safely to Manila, and on time.
The rest of the week was packed with events, which fortunately had beautiful weather.

This afternoon we took some of our STAR clients on a city tour of Intramuros (downtown Manila) with IJM HQ Staff and their guests. I was feeling a little cautious for our clients, as I did not want them to feel like they had to put on a show or be something they are not, but once I saw their interactions with our guests from abroad, I was so encouraged to see how empowered the client's felt and how excited they were to show and share with others how their lives had been changed. From what they shared with me, it was an opportunity for them, not a burden.

This evening we partnered with a local church to put on the Manila Prayer Gathering. Over 100 of our partners showed up simply to pray for the cause of IJM. It was so inspiring. I got to lead a prayer group, where one of our clients joined me. We all went around to pray, and I think she prayed the most beautiful prayer I've ever heard. Although mostly in Tagalog, I was able to hear her heart and how grateful she was to be where she is today. Earlier she had told me of a recent promotion at her job with an organization that offers job to many of our clients that makes and sells organic cleaning products, and so I was able to brag on her to the group and share in her success.

Wednesday, July 14

So apparently, the monster rain we recently experienced was not just a storm that was part of the rainy season, but typhoon Conson.  Around 11pm on Tuesday, my electricity went out while I was on the phone with Corey.  I decided to go stay with Leah in an apartment building one street away, as she still had electricity and I figured if the electricity would go out, it would be better to be with people than in an entirely separate building apart from everyone (all the other interns live in the same building except for me...).  Going outside was a little eery, the wind was starting to get out of control and debris was starting to blow off of structures and fall to the ground.  Walking was, at times, difficult, as I tried to push through the air and reach the other apartment complex. Once I was safe and sound at Leah's, we tried to go to sleep early to prepare for the big visit of Gary Haugen, President and CEO of IJM and some supporters of IJM.  We laid our head on the pillow, but neither of us could sleep from the noise of the wind and crazy storm outside.  There is a condemned building right next door where we kept hearing glass shattering all throughout the night.  At one point we gave up on sleeping and just sat and watched the storm go on outside the window.  There is a hotel across the street, and I saw a man try to leave and walk to his car a few steps away..the wind overtook him and he just started sprinting down the street.  I knew he didn't intend to originally sprint down the street because I saw him trying to crawl his way through the wind back to his car.  I'm supposed to be used to this whole hurricane thing being from Florida...and I think I was fine for a while...until around 2 or 3am when the fire alarm to the building went off....I went into panic mode as I was having flashbacks from my first week here when my building actually caught on fire and was a mess the rest of the night.  There was no fire, just a technical problem they said, but I just couldn't relax.

When I first heard of a typhoon heading this way, I contacted my dad and asked that he pray the rains wouldn't ruin the art exhibit we had planned for Thursday.  Amidst the fire alarms, the lack of elecrticity, the insane wind and consistent glass shattering...I turned to Leah and asked "why did I ask my dad to pray for the art exhibit and not...for our lives."  Now that it's all over I realize how safe I was...and while we were concerned that the weather would affect all we had planned for Gary's visit, it turns out having the typhoon on Tuesday meant no rain the rest of the week, which was a huge blessing. The electricity at my place was out for 2 days, but that is it. Having all those rains also brought down the temperature too, which made sitting in heat not as bad as it has been the past few months. My fears from the storm seem somewhat unfounded when you hear about the actual devastation so many people have experienced.  Please keep them in your prayers. 

pictures of the devastation

Tuesday, July 13

Edgar and I experienced our first monster rain when walking home from work tonight. If this is what rainy season will be like...then I need to carry around my rain boots (that Hope gave me before she left) with me everywhere.  I was wearing flats, and they were filling up with water so much that when I walked, only the heel of my foot would come off the ground.  Edgar was wearing his boat shoes which he said ironically can't get wet...or walk on water.  We agreed our feet might be catching diseases with each river we crossed over, but we just did what we could to get home.  And yes, we were using an umbrella.

Sunday, July 4

My future sister-in-law (hehe...i have a future sister in law :)) and her boyfriend came to visit me for a long weekend. The timing was perfect..we had Wednesday off to celebrate the Presidential Inaguration, and Friday off for something like Pasig Day...who knows.  Having visitors is so fun because it means we decide to do fun touristy things that, for some reason, we just don't do on a regular basis. 

On Thursday I took them to a restuarant overlooking the city:

Friday I took them to the Mall of Asia, which is the 4th largest shopping mall in the world.  I ordered them delicious Filipino Food overlooking Manila Bay before taking them on a city tour.

Saturday, we went to Tagaytay to see an active volcano close to Manila.  We went to this glorious place called Sonya's Garden, which offeres yummy organic/fresh foods....and pampered ourselves by getting massages and manicures and pedicures....all for under $20. 

Lastly, on Sunday, Madison, Kortney and I went to El Corregidor where we ended up getting the opportuniy to take pictures "driving" a jeepney.

Kortney and Craig gave me one of the best compliments they could have said when they told me they were impressed with how assertive I was  (they saw me in action with many a taxi driver) and commenting on how acculturated I seemed.  I wanted to tell them it was all an illusion, but having them appreciate the city as much as they did really helped to further my love for the Philippines and to feel so grateful to have been given the opportunity to be here. 

Tuesday, June 29th

We (me, Hope, Leah and new legal intern Madison) went to a fun place tonight called Tiendecitas.  It has fresh food/fruits/fish, some shops, and this picnic table area in the outside where you can listen to live music...which we appreciate here.  We are continually so impressed by the muscial talent in this country. Good singers tend to show up everywhere we go. 

Our friend Joey came to hang out with us, the one who introduced us to isaw (chicken or pig intenstines), so now it has become his job to force us to eat what we wouldn't pick out for ourselves.  On the menu tonight: pigs ears.  Yeah for the most part everything does kind of seem to revolve around pigs.  How to describe the taste....hm.  They taste just like they look?

Tuesday, June 22

Congratulations to IJM FO Manila, as today celebrates their 9th year anniversary!

I get to celebrate later on today by attending a signing of the IRR of RA 9775, Anti-Child Pornography Act of 2009, which I'm pretty sure our Legal Fellow, Mike, helped draft. (I will check to make sure).  IJM is so great. I'm sure you already knew that, though.

Sunday, June 20

Happy Father's Day to my daddy!  I love you!!! Thank you for reminding me that someone calling me a sweaty darling is more so calling me a darling than someone who is sweaty.  :)

I got to work on a Sunday today...which is my privelege, because I got to work with our wonderful and resilient clients.  Any opportunity to be with them truly enhances and blesses my life.  At the STAR Training a few months ago, I noticed during videoke that one of our clients sang a song that seemed to really speak to her. She finished singing it with tears in her eyes, and we found out later singing is her passion and she gets through hard times.  At an event for one of our partner organizations, the victims of trafficking sang and danced to the song, and left the stage crying, as well.  It's called The Journey by Lea Solanga....and it seems to truly touch on the life experience of many of our clients.  They will be having a performance coming up, so we have hired a voice coach for them in practicing the song.  We didn't so much want it to just be about a successful and perfect performance, but a continuation on a journey to recovery...so by hiring a voice coach we are able to empower them to feel confident in other skills and abilities, and show them how important they are by investing in them.  They seemed to enjoy it, and were highly entertained when I tried to speak broken Taglish to them.

Thursday, June 17

I went to a forum on human trafficking today.  The forum was lovely, well planned, and had delicious food.  It included 5 hours of talking and debating about issues of trafficking.  Here in the Philippines when they hear too much English or have trouble translating, they call it "having a nosebleed."  Well, the whole forum was in English, but I still felt like I was having a nosebleed.  I just think my mind sometimes gets on "human trafficking" overloard, and it's like I reach a point I can't hear anymore.  The problem of trafficking is so huge, so difficult...I feel dabilitated...and frustrated.  and even angry.  I think sometimes I just can't take it. It was one of those situations where people seemed to be debating and debating and talking and talking and I just wanted to be like...OK...so now what are we going to DO?  These events are, however, good for awareness and I am more than grateful to have been invited. I think my frustrations were more so about me, and where I'm at, versus the actual event.

Tuesday, June 15

I started out this morning by attending a graduation ceremony for a client's family member at cosmotology school.  IJM is able to also assist client family members in their education,  since we are attempting to help the minors in the family not have or feel a need to work in bars.  It was so encouraging to participate in an event such as this, and witness women and men feeling empowered and doing what they love.  In true Filipino style, there was videoke during the ceremony...one of the songs being: My Heart Will Go On.  And the person singing it... killed it. I was so impressed.  :) 

After the graduation, I was dropped off to meet a client in order to escort her to visit one of our partner organizations, which she may choose to join.  Our relationship with this organization is continuing to grow, and I am encouraged every time I go to this sanctuary for women battling prostitution.  Tears welled up the clients eyes as she heard of a scholarship opportunity from Samaritana, so that she could afford to send her children to school.  This has been a major stressor for this clients life and one of the reasons she was originally trafficked internationally...the thought of an opportunity to make enough money for her family. 

I finishd the day visiting a children's home where Hope used to volunteer during a previous summer in the Philippines.  I don't know what my expectations were, but the place was incredible, the children seemed well adjusted and happy, and were clearly getting the love they needed from the staff.  One of Hope's contacts had brought in a group of high school students from the United States on a mission trip here, and asked us to speak to them about our work with IJM.  People are usually so grateful when we do this, but I don't think they realize what a blessing it is for us.  We get so pumped up talking about IJM, it's mission, and the incredible people that we get to work with.  By no means are we the soldiers and the ones effecting change, but the people here that are employed by IJM.  Talking about it to groups serves a good reminder for us, as we can sometimes struggle in our day to day responsibilities and maybe even forget what it's all about.